It is the first such move by Russian military under Donald Trump's presidency and came as White House national security adviser Michael Flynn was forced to resign amid controversy over his Russia contacts.

US officials in Washington played down the presence of the Russian vessel, saying it was perfectly legal and not out of the ordinary.

An official said: “It’s not a huge concern but we are keeping our eyes on it.

“It's not unprecedented. It's not unusual. It's not alarming."

GETTY

The Viktor Leonov docked in Havana

The Russian ship went into service in the Black Sea in 1988 before it was transferred seven years later to the northern fleet.

It was named after Viktor Leonov - a Soviet sailor in the Second World War who was awarded two Hero of the Soviet Union medals.

The vessel caused a stir when it docked in Havana in February and March 2014, staying there for a few days.

GETTY

Russian spy ship the Viktor Leonov in Havana

Do these photos show America preparing for war with Russia?

Wed, January 18, 2017

A photographer has captured what he says is an F-16 jet practicing dogfights with a mysterious Russian fighter plane – before returning to Area 51.